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QMS graduate reaches for the stars

posted Jun 25, 2014 at 10:00 AM

How many people can claim they knew what they wanted to do as a career long before they completed high school? Queen Margaret's School graduate Alice Young can, and she's worked hard to ensure she has her chosen path ready for the next step in September. She has been accepted into the University of St. Andrew's in Scotland to study the universe in their School of Physics & Astronomy.

Alice Young of Duncan has always enjoyed mathematics and science. "Next to being an avid equestrian rider, I have always enjoyed STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)," explains Young. "I have wanted to pursue a career in the sciences since I was a young girl, and in the last two years, it became clear that astrophysics was my passion and goal." Alice was accepted to eight universities around the world, many with scholarship offers. She selected St. Andrew's due to their accelerated Master's of Science program. Alice will graduate with a combined bachelor's and master's degree in five years.

Alice's journey to attending this world‐renowned post‐secondary institution was boosted through engagement in challenging summer camps and high scholastic marks. During the summer of 2013, Alice was invited to attend the International Summer School for Young Physicists at the Perimeter Institute and the Quantum Cryptography School for Young Students at the University of Waterloo. "Alice is a phenomenal student," praises Carrie Craig, QMS Academic Advisor. "She is mature beyond her years, and her passion for science makes her determined to attain her dreams. We look forward to following her career as she follows her path to the stars."

During Queen Margaret's School's end of year student recognition celebrations, Alice was recognized for her impressive scholastic achievements and positive citizenship with the following awards:

The Servite Fortiter Cup (outstanding citizen of QMS who has delivered "over and above")

Lifer Award (student of QMS for six or more years)

Governor General's Award (top academic student in Grade 12 for all classes taken in both Grade 11 and 12: 94.58%)

Alice has one final goal to achieve locally before leaving for Scotland. As a member of the QMS Equestrian Team coached by Cheryl Keith, she was selected to compete in the BC Summer Games. "I'm very excited to compete alongside my fellow teammates in July," shares Alice. "It will undoubtedly be an incredible experience."

— submitted by Hayley Picard

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